December 3, 2016 - January 5, 2017

Artists André and Virginia Bally hope to awaken in viewers an appreciation for three-dimensional artwork through this current body of work. The desire is to promote the concept that three-dimensional art is more than just the craft and craftsmanship through which it was created and to elevate these works into the realm of art or, hopefully, even fine art. The Ballys explore not only various techniques and media but also the infinite possibilities and diversity presented throughout the course of artistic development.

For this show the artists are working with media and proportions that are outside of their comfort zone. In addition to producing work in their traditional media of clay, the Ballys have stretched themselves artistically by experimenting with new processes and materials.

The Ballys’ approach to the creative process is what makes their work unique. Each work of art is created from a very personal perspective; the thought process develops from their own life experiences, as well as an artistic aesthetic developed and shared over many years. The artists have found the public to be very receptive to this approach which encourages viewers to get to know the artists through their work. Without question, these artists are each other’s greatest influence. The Ballys rely on each other for inspiration, technical advice, feedback, and encouragement. While they work primarily in clay creating low and mid-range fired ceramics, the artists are now also exploring mixed media and multi-media in the creation of their “retablos” which are a modern take on the traditional Mexican art form. The Ballys also work extensively with sandblasting techniques to etch both ceramics and glass.